There are many uses for sheds but what they all have in common is the need for a base to maximise its potential. The shed's base is as important as the quality of the shed itself.

A well-constructed base will provide durability and longevity, whilst withstanding all the outdoor elements.

How to construct a shed in six easy steps:

1. Location: Their shouldn’t be any trees or walls too close to the structure. Tree roots can be a structural issue and a narrow gap between a shed and a wall or fence will make applying wood treatment to the shed tricky.

2. Accessibility: Ask yourself a variety of questions surrounding the Shed's use. Will you be carrying heavy items in and out? Do you require water or electricity? These can have an impact on where the shed is located.

3. Sub-Base: Concrete cannot be applied directly to the ground. Scrape off the top layer of soft soil and vegetation to a 3 inch depth. Construct a wooden framework that runs the perimeter of the base dimensions, sits 3 inches above garden level and firmly fix together. Fill with Hardcore, before compacting.

4. Concrete: Dependant on the size of the base, it may be advisable to split the space in to sections using more wooden battons, and then pour in the Concrete. Remember to start at the furthest point so you don’t have to walk on it, and leave yourself enough time as it sets quickly.

5. Application – Remove air pockets from the Concrete by pushing a shovel blade up and down before spreading with a rake. Using a tamping board (or timber), pack down the surface, removing excess Concrete to ensure its level.

6. Setting – To prevent cracking, cover the finished base with a raised polythene sheet. Generally, you can walk on the Concrete after three days and remove the framework after five

Did you know? – Important events have taken place in sheds over the years. William Harley and Arthur Davidson used theirs to build the legendary motorcycle, while Nobel Prize Winner, Marie Curie, carried out most of her ground-breaking work with radiation in a shed.

Materials Required –

- Skip

- Hardcore

- Concrete

- Wooden Battons

- Fixings

Mick's Handy Tips – Why not supplement your new base with our extensive range of sheds, or a slabbed, stoned or turfed surrounding to add those all important extra touches.

This article was sponsored by Mick George. Find out more by calling (088) 587 3329 or visiting mickgeorge.co.uk/gardenproject, where you can order skips, paving, sleepers, decking, fencing and much more. For 10% off online orders, use the code HGDEC16 before 08/01/17.